Forensic Scientist

Forensic technicians and scientists use scientific knowledge and practice to investigate crimes, or to gather information in relation to other legal issues. This includes the gathering of DNA evidence, fingerprint analysis, and detailed examination of crime scenes, but can also cover the recovery of digital documents. Forensic technicians and scientists work alongside the police to ensure that all possible information is extracted from a crime scene.

Almost all forensic technicians and scientists in New Zealand are employed by ESR, the Institute of Environmental Science and Research, which provides forensics services to the New Zealand Police.

There are only a limited number of jobs for forensic scientists in New Zealand – only four or five vacancies each year – and competition can be intense.